Preparing for the MRI test:

At home:

Follow any instructions about eating or taking your usual medication. Please leave all jewelry and valuables at home. If possible please do not wear any make-up.

At the MRI center:

You will discuss your medical history. The MRI technologist will explain the MRI examination procedures and answer any questions you may have. Due to the strength of the magnet field from the scanner, you will be asked to remove all metallic objects such as jewelry, glasses, clothing with zippers, and credit cards. You may be asked to change into hospital scrubs.

What can you expect during the MRI exam?

Although MRI is a very advanced medical technique, the MRI exam is probably one of the easiest and most comfortable exams you will ever experience. The technologist will simply ask you to lie down on a cushioned table, which will automatically move into the scanner after you have been comfortably positioned. You will be able to listen to music during the scan and you can even bring your iPod for personal listening pleasure. The technologist will leave the magnet room, but will be in constant contact with you during the entire procedure. When the exam begins, you may hear a muffled thumping sound which might last a few minutes or several minutes. Just relax or take a nap, but always try to lie as still as possible since any movement during the scan will blur the pictures. If you are experiencing any anxiety, be assured that the technologist can hear and talk with you over an intercom.

For your personal safety:

If your physician requests an MRI examination, it is very important that inform both your doctor as well as our technologist/staff if you have any of the following:

• A pacemaker - you CANNOT have an MRI
• A ICD (Internal Cardiac Defibrillator)
• Any metal implant including: plates, pins, or other metallic implant (cochlear implant, etc.)
• Aneurysm clips
• Metallic braces
• An artificial heart valve
• Ever been exposed to metal or metal fillings that could be lodged in your eyes
• Residual shotgun pellets or bullets that could be lodged anywhere in your body
• An intrauterine device (IUD)
• Metallic items within the body may cause discomfort or injury to you when placed in the magnetic field, and may exclude you from the MRI exam.
• Also, be sure to tell the doctor or technologist if you are or suspect that you might be pregnant.

Why would you send you patients anywhere else?